Sprockets are measured with a ruler across three teeth. Exact measurement points are shown in the video below.
Potential Observations
What to look for
Below are some of the issues you should be looking for when inspecting sprockets. This list does not cover all possible issues, but is a starting point that covers most genral issues.
Tooth Tip Wear
| Examples | Causes | Effects | Recommendations |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
• Packing • # of bushings in sprocket • Mismatch in pitch • Improper track adjustment • Common on Hystats — In reverse, track bunches between sprocket & rear roller — Power to final drive at all times — Causes bushing interference w/ the RDS tooth |
• Wave tooth pattern • Visual concern only |
• Proper track adjustment • Continue running • Add guarding package • Frequent cleaning of track fram • Assure sprocket guards are in place |
Normal Tip Wear
| Examples | Causes | Effects | Recommendations |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
• Normal wear between bushing & sprocket | • Sharp tooth • 100% worn • Wear dimension across 3 teeth equals 1 track pitch (Ex. D6 = 8.00 in.) • Possible tooth breakage |
• Proper measurement procedure: — Oval track: Use gauge to determine sprocket reuse — Elevated track: Measure across 3 teeth approx. 5mm below tooth tip to determine sprocket life • Proper track adjustment • Segment replacement • Offer Improved Material segment to reach pin/bushing turn |
Root Wear
| Examples | Causes | Effects | Recommendations |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
• Machine balance — Tail heavy (Oval) • High rear roller wear • Tight track • Lack of guarding • Frequent directional shifting |
• Possible damage to final drive hub • Reduced segment wear life |
• Proper track adjustment • Proper guarding • Proper balance • Proper roller swapping • Operator education — Quick/frequent directional shifts cause higher bushing wear |
Mushroom/Side Wear
| Examples | Causes | Effects | Recommendations |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
• Not 100% contact across segment width • Bushing contacting edge of segment |
• Slight rolling of material over segment edge | • Normal wear; Cosmetic only — May wear away from segment scrubbing against chain • Continue to run |
Side Scrubbing Wear
| Examples | Causes | Effects | Recommendations |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
• Track wearing to one side of segment • Sidesloping • Carrier roller not properly aligned • Clearance between sprocket & inside link spread — Normal clearance 10-12 mm — D4H/D5M (6 mm) |
• Shiny surfaces on links & segments from contact | • Check carrier roller alignment • Directional changes on sideslope • Cosmetic only; continue to run |
Mounting Hardware Interference
| Examples | Causes | Effects | Recommendations |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
• Hardware assembled in wrong position | • Possible damage to links &/or segments • Possible bolt loosening |
• Check for proper hardware installation • Replace if misinstalled • OK if slight abrasive wear on hardware faces |
Uneven Tooth Wear
| Examples | Causes | Effects | Recommendations |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
• Improper heat treatment | • Accelerated sprocket to bushing wear | • Replace segments |